MT GEAR UP Adressing Absenteeism

Background
The Montana GEAR UP (MTGU) program is seeking information from organizations with expertise in addressing student absenteeism and improving school attendance rates among middle and high school students. MTGU identifies absenteeism, particularly chronic absenteeism, as a significant challenge to student success. The program has prioritized addressing this issue during its current seven-year grant period from 2024 to 2031. It aims to gather insights from vendors capable of developing and implementing strategies to reduce absenteeism in 12 specific school districts across Montana.

Work Details
MTGU is looking for organizations that can provide services aimed at reducing absenteeism among 7th-12th grade students in the following school districts:
- Arlee Public Schools
- Box Elder Public Schools
- Browning Public Schools
- Hardin Public Schools
- Libby Public Schools
- Lodge Grass Public Schools
- Pryor Public Schools
- Rocky Boy Public Schools
- St. Ignatius Public Schools
- St. Regis Public Schools
- Superior Public Schools
- Thompson Falls Public Schools.

These districts are located in remote rural areas with limited resources and high rates of low socioeconomic backgrounds. Current enrollment is approximately 4,000 students across these districts. Vendors are invited to describe their services and demonstrate their capacity to address the components outlined in this request.

Period of Performance
The project is expected to take approximately three years to fully implement, with a start date during the 2026-2027 school year.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed across various school districts in Montana.

Bidder Requirements
Vendors must demonstrate expertise in addressing student absenteeism and improving attendance rates. There are no specific set-aside certifications or registration requirements mentioned.